5 Keys to the Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills TNF Showdown

Tonight, the Miami Dolphins host their division rival Buffalo Bills under the bright lights of Primetime. Here are five critical factors that could tilt the game in Miami’s favor:

1. Disrupting Josh Allen’s Comfort Zone

Buffalo fans aren’t wrong when they say Josh Allen has owned the Dolphins—because historically, he has. Allen has consistently torn Miami apart, and even defensive mastermind Vic Fangio struggled to contain him last season. While Allen had a few rough outings in 2023, his meetings with Miami have often been clinics in domination. If the Dolphins want any chance of flipping the script, they must find a way to make Allen uncomfortable, even if it’s just enough to slow him down. Without his top target, Stefon Diggs, Allen still finds a way, often with his legs, converting key third downs and scrambling in the red zone when the Dolphins think they have him cornered. Miami must stay disciplined and find a way to contain him.

2. Establish the Ground Game

Miami’s running game will be tested without Raheem Mostert and potentially De’Von Achane, who is questionable. This could put the spotlight on rookie Jaylen Wright and veteran Jeff Wilson Jr. While Buffalo’s defense remains tough, the loss of linebacker Matt Milano (torn bicep) leaves them a little thinner. If Miami can establish a solid running attack, it will make their lethal passing game even more dangerous. Opening up the ground game will give Tua the space he needs to do what Miami does best—light up defenses.

3. Exploit Buffalo’s Weakened Secondary

Buffalo’s secondary is far from what it once was. Gone are stalwarts like Tre’Davious White and Jordan Poyer, now with the Dolphins, while cornerback Taron Johnson is also out. The opportunity is there for Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to feast on mismatches. The Dolphins need to attack early and often, and not shy away from taking deep shots. If Miami’s wideouts can break free, this could be a long night for Buffalo’s defense.

4. Tua Time

There’s no denying it—Tua Tagovailoa has struggled to keep up with Josh Allen in head-to-head matchups. While a lot of that has come in frigid Buffalo, his performances at home against the Bills haven’t been stellar either. This game represents yet another prime opportunity for Tua to flip the narrative. With Buffalo’s secondary looking vulnerable, Tua will need to take full advantage of the mismatches.

5. Winning the Battle in the Trenches

Leading to the last key: The offensive line. Buffalo’s defensive front is no joke, with Gregory Rousseau leading the charge. Rousseau is fresh off a dominant three-sack performance and was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week. The Dolphins’ O-line will need to hold strong against a fierce pass rush to give Tua the time he needs to connect with his speedsters downfield. If Miami’s protection falters, it could be a long night in the pocket for Tua.

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